Ex-Argentina international Redondo to represent LaLiga in his homeland

Buenos Aires, Feb 27 (IANS) Former Argentine international Fernando Redondo, who won four trophies with Real Madrid, was introduced as the new LaLiga ambassador to Argentina.

The retired midfielder was presented at an event here on Tuesday with former teammate Fernando Sanz, the director of the LaLiga ambassadors programme, reports Efe news.

"I always felt like a great representative of Argentine football in the Spanish league. I was lucky enough to play for a decade, starting in Tenerife and then in Real Madrid, where I reached my peak as a professional," Redondo said of his time in Spain's top-flight.

The new face of LaLiga in Argentina said that compatriot Santiago Solari, now coach of Real Madrid, is doing well, "knowing that in Madrid you have to always win and sometimes, even if you win, it's often not enough, they ask for more".

Redondo, 49, revealed that he is eager to get into coaching and believes it is A "propitious moment" for him.

He said that he might begin his coaching career with an Argentine club, while emphasiSing he cares more about the quality of the opportunity than location.

"If what I saw in the past is extrapolated now as a coach, here is an incredible coach," Sanz said of Redondo.

Although Redondo defined Real Madrid captain Sergio Ramos as "a great benchmark", he could not hide his weakness for another LaLiga star - Argentina's own Lionel Messi, who plays for the Blancos' arch-rival, Barcelona.

"My heart is (Real) Madrid, but I have to say that obviously, Messi is a special player and that everyone, any football lover, any spectator or LaLiga fan has to enjoy it," said Redondo.

Regarding the level of the Argentine first division, Redondo said that everyone hopes to see the Superliga continue evolving, as "there are many things to improve, but it is on the right track".

He also emphasiSed that good players continue to emerge from the Argentine first division with the "character" and personality to adapt to the demands of LaLiga.

Redondo won LaLiga twice and hoisted the Champions League on two occasions during his six-year tenure with Real Madrid.

He made 29 appearances with the Argentine national team, taking part in the 1994 World Cup and winning the 1993 Copa America.